Alliance board member named Ivy Tech's Benefactor of the Year

Jean
Neal, vice president of Corporate Affairs for Haynes International Inc. based
in Kokomo, is among the 14 nominees for the Ivy Tech Foundation Benefactor of
the Year award who were recognized Sept. 29 at the foundation’s annual awards
dinner at the West Baden Springs Hotel. Neal was nominated for the award for
her many contributions to Ivy Tech’s Kokomo Region.

The Ivy Tech Foundation
has honored individuals, corporations, or foundations since 2010, and
recognizes those who have considerably impacted Ivy Tech communities and
students. Great advances are possible at Ivy Tech through the support of the
nominees through volunteer leadership and philanthropic service.

“The Kokomo Region is
proud to have nominated Jean,” said David Bathe, chancellor of Ivy Tech’s
Kokomo and Lafayette Region. “Since 2007, Jean has donated to a variety of Ivy
Tech needs, including capital campaigns, unrestricted funds, classroom
renovations, and several scholarships. In 2015, Jean established the Neel
Family endowed scholarship and since then has added to the fund.”

Neel also served on the
Kokomo Regional Board of Trustees for nine years, including several years as
its chairperson. She regularly attends many college events throughout the
region and often brings her co-workers with her to learn about Ivy Tech.

“As a community college
graduate and scholarship recipient herself, Jean learned first-hand how
scholarship money can change lives,” said Kelly Karickhoff, executive director
of resource development for Ivy Tech’s Kokomo Region. “When she established the
Neel Family Scholarship, she said, ‘This is my way of expressing gratitude for
those who have helped me along the way and stepping up to do the same for
others.’"

Karickhoff noted that Neel
also has made a significant impact through her influence with her employer,
Haynes International. During her time as a regional trustee, Haynes
International contributed nearly $165,000 to Ivy Tech. The new library on the
Kokomo Campus was named in honor of the company’s support. Additionally, the
colleagues she brought to scholarship events have contributed an additional S5.000.

During its May 7
commencement ceremonies, Neel received an honorary Associate of Science in
College and Community Service degree in recognition of her contributions to the
College, its students and the communities served by Kokomo Region.